Q4. Good Shepherd

[Pastor Ralph]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the “Good Shepherd”? How do these contrast with the “hired hand.” God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” rather than “hired hands”?

[IvoryEagle]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"? A CARING AND EMPOWERED PROTECTOR

 

 

How do these contrast with the "hired hand"?  A HIRED HAND IS DRIVEN BY HIS OWN NEEDS; A SHEPHERD IS DRIVEN BY THE NEEDS OF THE SHEEP

 

 

God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. YES, HE DOES.

 

 

 

 

How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"? LEAD WITH THE HEART, NOT THE HEAD

[JanMary]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"?

 

​The sheep are the property of the Good Shepherd, Who cares for them like they were his own children....leading them to tender green grass and away from pastures with poisonous thistles and holes they might fall into. He leads them to quiet watering places, knowing they won't drink from rushing water. He guards them and drives away predators with his rod. He carries a staff to pull them back from places they've gotten themselves into where they can't extricate themselves. He anoints them with oil on their wounds and around their eyes to keep pests from breeding there. He carries the little ones when the terrain is too steep or they are injured. He puts them In enclosures and sleeps across the door, lest someone comes and tries to steal one of his sheep. His voice is gentle and His sheep respond only to His voice. He knows each one of His

sheep as individuals and their particular quirks and tendencies, and may even have pet names for them. In other words, his sheep are his life work and purpose.

 

How do these contrast with the "hired hand."?

 

​To the hired hand, the sheep are only a means to an end...a source of income. I've read that hired shepherds drive the sheep with a lash rather than going before them to seek safety and good pasture. He may be harsh or just indifferent, but the sheep "know not his voice" and don't respond to it. There is only the basic care given, just enough to get them In reasonable shape to market. There is no personal relationship or interaction with them.

 

God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

 

​We can remember how the Good Shepherd cares for His sheep, and that we are His "under-shepherds" tasked with following His lead, not "hired hands" to "get a job done" or to give us any kind of status or recognition as "leaders."

[charisbarak]

He is good, lays down his life for the sheep, knows his sheep and the sheep know Him.

The hired hand abandons the sheep, doesn't care about the sheep, only his life.

We pray for our sheep, stay in the Word, protect by giving only the truth.

[JeannieG]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"?

 

My Answer: good, lays down his life for the sheep, He owns the sheep, he cares for the sheep,

He knows the sheep and the sheep know Him.

 

How do these contrast with the "hired hand"?

 

The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away.  The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.

 

God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

 

My Answer: We demonstrate that we are good shepherds through our words and actions, giving glory and honor to God in all circumstances, following His will, caring about Him first, others second and ourselves last.

 

[Commissioned]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the “Good Shepherd”? How do these contrast with the “hired hand.” God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” rather than “hired hands”?

The “Good Shepherd” provides for his sheep, He cares for his sheep, protects them and lays down his life for the sheep. The “hired hand” does not own the sheep. He does only what he's contracted to do, not necessarily out of love for the sheep he guards.  God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. we can demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” rather than “hired hands” by serving them with a genuine heart of love.

[Annelle]

 What are the characteristics of the “Good Shepherd”? How do these contrast with the “hired hand.” God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” rather than “hired hands”?          

 

The hired hand works for his own agenda ie to eat, clothe and sleep under a roof. The shepherd has a personal relationship with his charge. He can call them by name and they know His voice.

 

We can do that by allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us. By being personal with those in our care.

[haar]

Q4. (John 10:11-14)

 

Q. What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"?

 

A. He tends, guides, protects, feeds (provides), gives His life for the sheep etc

 

Q. How do these contrast with the "hired hand"?

 

A. The hired hand looks only for his welfare and will run for his life when a wild beast attacks the flock.

 

Q. God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?
 

A. shepherding as Christ did and still do

[blezed]

(John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the “Good Shepherd”? How do these contrast with the “hired hand.” God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” rather than “hired hands”?

Characteristics of the "Good Shepherd" is one that know their sheep, care for their sheep and protect them. 

 

The hired hand will care for their sheep only when things are going good and it is profitable for them.  They do not own the sheep so as soon as trouble arise, they will desert them. 

 

We demonstrated that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands" by doing the same as Christ did.  Show love for one another, help one another, pray for one another, care for one another and be there in their time of need.

 

[Debra Grant]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the

"Good Shepherd"? How do these contrast with the "hired hand"?

God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, 

teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are

"good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

 

1. A good shepherd will lay down his life for his sheep." (John 10:11)

A good shepherd knows his sheep and his sheep knows him.

A good shepherd cares for his sheep and protects them.

 

When one sheep is lost the shepherd will go find it. 

 

2. A hired hand is not of God and will not go to the end

with his sheep. A hired hand will not protect the sheep

and leave when their is trouble.

 

1. Express love, care, concern, and be there for the sheep.

Be an Godly example.

[lighthouse2014]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the “Good Shepherd”? How do these contrast with the “hired hand.” God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” rather than “hired hands”?

The characteristics of the Good Shepherd are he knows his sheep, protects them and calls them by name. The Good Shepherd lays down his life for his sleep.

One who is hired to shepherd the sheep will not care for the sheep when danger comes. He will save himself but not the sheep he was hired to protect.

We can be good shepherds to the flock as opposed to the hired hand by the fact we care for one another, we will lay down our lives for one another. As pastor we watch over the flock to ensure no one goes astray. 

[van]

The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. The good shepherd knows His sheep and His sheep knows Him. Hired hand is not always dependable. When we are called as leaders to shepherd Jesus flock as bishops, teachers, doctors, pastors, ministers, etc., that is what we should be doing. We are to represent Christ!

[hanks]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) 

What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"? 

How do these contrast with the "hired hand"? 

God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. 

How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

The Good Shepherd always has great concern for His sheep. All that the Father has given Him will not go astray.

He ensures that they are well cared for, fed and watered, and protected against predators by making sure they do not wander off. 

If they do He will rescue them. 

This all contrasts with the “hired hand” who serves for money.

Their interest is only in the money they will receive. 

They do not own the sheep, so when danger comes they are more than likely to run away and leave the sheep to the mercy of the wolf.

It is only by trying to emulate our Lord and Saviour can we demonstrate that we are good shepherds and not hired hands. 

 

[alimaespa]

The Good Shepherd always has great concern for His sheep. All that the Father has given Him will not go astray.

 

He ensures that they are well cared for, fed and watered, and protected against predators by making sure they do not wander off. 

If they do He will rescue them. 

 

This all contrasts with the “hired hand” who serves for money.

 

Their interest is only in the money they will receive.

 

They do not own the sheep, so when danger comes they are more than likely to run away and leave the sheep to the mercy of the wolf.

It is only by trying to emulate our Lord and Saviour can we demonstrate that we are good shepherds and not hired hands

[Taz]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"? How do these contrast with the "hired hand"? God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

 

As we read John 10, we understand that Jesus was speaking to the Jews and Pharisees who were against Him in every way possible. They believed themselves to be the head of the Jewish church and considered Jesus to be the imposter.

 

Jesus, on the other hand, knew them to be false shepherds who would run away if danger threatened the sheep, and He used a parable to illustrate the difference between an "owner" and just a "hireling," one who is paid to keep the sheep.

 

The first thing to notice is what He didn't say (vs 7), that He was "a" door, as in one of a number of doors. Contrary to the worlds thinking and the common consensus of many who today, say otherwise, there is only ONE WAY to GOD.

 

In John 14:6, He also said, "I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."

Again, He used "THE" instead of "a"....for there is only ONE WAY, and it is He. There is only ONE "Good Shepherd", and it is He.

 

In the six short verses of Psalm 23 is the description of the Good Shepherd.

There is no want in the care of the Good Shepherd. Instead we are lead to still waters, a place of

tranquility, of rest and green pastures, not driven...but lead by the One Who loves us the most.

 

Reading Ezekiel 34 speaks of those who do not care for the flock in contrast to shepherds who do. (vs 16)

GOD is very protective of His flock, saying "I Am your GOD." (vs 31)

 

I once thought of my parents as "over protective" because until I was about thirteen, I was not allowed to go to the community pool or the beach unless one of them was with me. Even though there was a "lifeguard" on duty, they would not leave me in the care of a stranger. It wasn't until I had a child of my own that I understood. A paid caregiver would do their best, but a parent, would give their all.

 

Jesus gave His ALL.

 

In 1 Corinthians 12, as the Apostle Paul writes about spiritual gifts, he tells us that the gifts of the Spirit are given for the "profit of all."

And as Peter wrote too of spiritual gifts, he said (1 Peter 4) "But the ends of all things is at hand" and if we truly believe that time is of the essence, we will pay heed to what else Peter said, "be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins." Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of GOD. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of GOD. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which GOD supplies, that in all things GOD may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to Whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen."

 

Though not all are called to be pastors or ministry leaders in a church, we are all to make sure our hearts and minds are stayed on Him. In our prayers we are to seek His guidance, and His help as we meet those each day who need to hear His gospel.

As we have been given the privilege to "come boldly" to His throne (Hebrews 4:16) let us pray

for boldness as we open our mouths to declare His gospel as the days grow darker. (Ephesians 6)

 

The gifts that each believer is given are given by His design. (1 Corinthians 12:11) Individual talents too are gifts from GOD. 

While some may profit from their talents, and there is nothing wrong with that, many (read Exodus 31) over the centuries like Bezalel have used their talents to glorify GOD. 

Spiritual gifts however, are specifically for "the equipping of the saints for the works of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ" 

 

Regardless of what we believe our own spiritual gift may be, we are to serve GOD faithfully, in whatever area He has placed us.

 

Corrie ten Boom once said of her captivity in the dark and horrid Nazi prison, that each day she had to think on 1 Corinthians 7:20-24 and commit herself to "bloom where she was planted."

It is in that commitment that we usually bump heads with the LORD over our will as opposed to His will....

As we walk in His command to "love" we will seek out those who are in need, whether in tangible things or in need of prayer and encouragement.

 

In Psalm 37 we read: "Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart."

So often that verse is quoted out of context to defend a particular teaching that suggests that GOD is like a vending machine!

But in truth, if we pay heed to all the words of the verse, not just those that support our subjective opinion, especially the word "also" in the previous verse (vs 3) that tells us that we are to "trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land", that is we are to conform ourselves to Him, not expecting it to be the other way around! Dwelling in the land is living each day dependent on Him to lead and supply.

 

That word "delight" actually means to be 'soft and pliable' and a heart that is not born-again is stony and it can't be soft and pliable without Christ. (Ezekiel 11:19-21)

 

In order to develop and exercise the spiritual gift that the Holy Spirit has given, whether to be a pastor or simply one who shares the gospel as often as the opportunity comes, we must be willing and obedient to His will in our lives. And as He is in residence within our hearts, we will find that our desires more and more reflect His will rather than our own.

[pickledilly]

The Good Shepherd has a love for His sheep and genuine concern their welfare. It's not just a paying job to guard and oversee the flock. The Good Shepherd owns, knows and cares for each of the sheep – and has a vested interest in them. He seeks the best grazing areas to nourish his sheep and leads them to the clearest waters to refresh them.  He protects them from enemies and dangerous terrain. He gives them freedom to roam as desired within the borders of His protective care, but His attentive eye is always on them and has shepherd's crook ready to reach in with assistance, guidance, or correction when needed. He is willing to sacrifice of himself in order to provide this care..

 

In the church, leaders should have the mentality and philosophy of genuine loving care for their “flocks”. Detached, self-serving and loveless leaders do not model the example of Jesus as the Good Shepherd.  To a hired hand, caring for the sheep is just a job.  To a Good Shepherd, it is a labor of love.

[Stanley Tavaziva]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"? How do these contrast with the "hired hand"? God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

 

Simon Peter encouraged elders to “be shepherds of God’s flock” [under their care so that], “…when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away” (1 Peter 5:2-4). The good shepherd knows his sheep because “…the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name.

Jesus the shepherd functiones as a gate, letting the sheep in and protecting them. Jesus is the gate to God’s salvation for us. He offers access to safety and security. Christ is our protector. Some people resent that Jesus is the gate, the only way of access to God. But Jesus is God’s Son—why should we seek any other way or want to customize a different approach to God?

The Bible says that Jesus knew what was in men’s hearts. A good pastor takes time to listen to people.

The good shepherd also protects his sheep. Most importantly, the good shepherd loves his sheep and sacrifices.

 

[Stanley Tavaziva]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"? How do these contrast with the "hired hand"? God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

 

Simon Peter encouraged elders to “be shepherds of God’s flock” [under their care so that], “…when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away” (1 Peter 5:2-4). The good shepherd knows his sheep because “…the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name.

Jesus the shepherd functiones as a gate, letting the sheep in and protecting them. Jesus is the gate to God’s salvation for us. He offers access to safety and security. Christ is our protector. Some people resent that Jesus is the gate, the only way of access to God. But Jesus is God’s Son—why should we seek any other way or want to customize a different approach to God?

The Bible says that Jesus knew what was in men’s hearts. A good pastor takes time to listen to people.

The good shepherd also protects his sheep. Most importantly, the good shepherd loves his sheep and sacrifices.

 

[Old Jerry]

The characteristic of a “Good Shepherd” is that he protects his sheep and prevents them from wandering off. The “hired hand” will not protect the sheep when danger approaches they will run away. We can demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” by being there for others in the group when they need help. The group will know that they can call you day or night and that you are will to help.

[linda bass]

The characteristics of the "Good Shepherd" are 1]He knows all those who are His, 2]He watches over and protects those who are His, 3]He gave His life for us.

How this contrasts with the "hired hand" is, the priests and religious leaders were supposed to care for God's people, but they only thought of themselves.

We can demonstrate we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands" by reaching out and helping those in need.

[Godswriter]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"? How do these contrast with the "hired hand"? God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

He knows who are His first off,  He watches over and protects those he watches; He gives his life for them, they sheep know and recognize him.  

The hireling is paid to watch the sheep ; he flees when he sees danger, he cares nothing for sheep. 

We can learn to be caring individuals and lead by His example. We can learn to help those that are new to the faith and welcome newcomers in our church without judging and learn to be someone who prays when we say I will pray for you. 

[Lottie]

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the "Good Shepherd"? How do these contrast with the "hired hand"? God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" rather than "hired hands"?

The characteristics of the "Good Shepherd" are one who leads the sheep and goes before them to look out for danger. One who lays down His life for the sheep. One who knows the sheep and they know Him.

The hired hand runs away when a predator comes and does not defend them or protect them. He leaves them defenseless.

We can demonstrate that we are "good shepherds" by taking time to listen to people and help them out. We need to show them love and understanding. We need to show them how to live for Him by example and warn them about things so they do not fall into sin and we need to welcome them back with open arms when they fall and are repentant.

[MICHELLE OXLEY]

The Names of Jesus.docx

[MosesSole]

On 12/10/2015 at 2:34 PM, Pastor Ralph said:

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the “Good Shepherd”?  The good shepherd leads his flock to water. When one goes astray, he finds the lost sheep and leads him back to the flock. The good shepherd knows his sheep, and they know him. The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep.

How do these contrast with the “hired hand.” A hired hand will not lay down his life the sheep and his voice will likely not be recognizable to his flock. There will be no love for the flock because the hired hand is only there serve as an employee. He will have no love for his flock because the sheep are not considered his.

God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” rather than “hired hands”? Most important thing to do is to get to know each and every pastor, teacher and mentor so we as shepherds and "know their voice" and that they come to know ours. We need to see them not just as employees of the church, but as our brothers and sisters. We must know them and love them so well that we should be ready to lay down our lives for them. We must treat them as God would treat His children-- with love and dedication. We must shepherd them to walk the path of righteousness and to prevent them from going stray when evil and sin threaten them. We must protect our flock as Jesus, the Good Shepherd protected his.

 

[rosegarden]

On 12/10/2015 at 2:34 PM, Pastor Ralph said:

Q4. (John 10:11-14) What are the characteristics of the “Good Shepherd”? How do these contrast with the “hired hand.” God calls us to shepherd others as pastors, small group leaders, teachers, mentors, etc. How can we demonstrate that we are “good shepherds” rather than “hired hands”?

a. The Good Shepherd cares for, feeds, protects, provides, restores, leads and guides, comforts, calls them by name and lays down his life for the sheep.  He seeks and saves the lost ones. 

b.  The hired hand is not faithful, does not care for the sheep but only for his own good, when there is trouble - he runs and cares not for the sheep and the sheep scatter and may never come back in the fold and many are turned away from the Lord.  We can demonstrate that we are good shepherds being faithful, helping those in need, lead and guide them into all truth,  pray for them, comfort them,  encourage them when they need it, friend and disciple them.